Microsoft wants iTunes on Windows 8, but Apple is reluctant

iTunes is available on Windows 8 like any other 'legacy' application in desktop mode, but Microsoft really wants to see a version built for their Modern-style "Metro" UI. In fact, Microsoft wants the app so bad that it went directly to Apple in an attempt to convince the company to make it happen. In an interview with CNN Money, Windows CFO Tami Reller said "the welcome mat has been laid out. It's not for lack of trying."

But Apple doesn't seem too excited to build a proper Windows 8 version of iTunes, and Reller says that users should not expect to see the app "any time soon."

If the "Metro" design sticks around in future versions of Windows, it seems likely that Apple would have to give in eventually and embrace the look and feel with its music software. But for the time being, they remain reluctant.

According to The Verge, iTunes is one of the most searched for apps in the Windows Store, which explains why Microsoft wants it so badly. With over 60,000 titles and big names like Twitter and Netflix already on board, not having a program that users are consistently searching for could become a thorn in Microsoft's side.

In many ways, Windows 8 is also competing in the tablet space, and as such, Reller believes that most popular iOS apps will be ported to the operating system in time for the holiday season. "That's not just our goal, but it'll be realistic to achieve that," Reller noted, adding that they're "almost there." Getting other iOS apps on Windows 8 is certainly a good thing for users, but iTunes is still the main target for Microsoft.